Rio Secco

Want to try Rio Secco in June.....any opinions? I've played Paiute a lot and love it....but thought about something new

My opinion of Rio Secco is hot and cold. The layout is fine and the views are great, but conditioning can suspect at times. The first time I played there was about 7-8 years ago in the summer. Greensfees were $75, which is not cheap for summer. Not only were the faiways threadbare in spots, no mention of the condition was made when tee time was made two days before. Very poor public relatios, but what's new for the golf biz.

The second time I played there was a few years ago in the spring and it was in perfect condition. Don't what fees were as my local buddy set everything up. In talking to him and others in the clubhouse after my first visit, the fairway problem comes and goes. This was afew years ago, so maybe they solved the problem. I would check with them when you make your tee time. It won't guarantee anything, but at least you have a legit complaint if they tell you one thing and it turns out to be another.

Good Luck!
Ric at Joes

I've played Rio a number of times as well as Paiute. Love Paiute. Rio's condition has always been good for me (usually play in mid-July) but I also have heard that they have had some issues from time to time. What annoys me about Rio is that they don't have any water on the course...you have to buy all of your water from the drink cart or concession stand. They do give you two tny bottles to start, but that is it. The pro shop folks also seem a bit stiff.
As for play...it has some dramatic holes as well as views. Some great elevation changes and challanging but fair greens.
You can also snap hook your drive into the Ebay founder's house in #14...it runs the entire length of the hole.
-Stomp

The water thing is a little frustrating. What's the problem with setting up and igloo cooler every couple of holes AND filling it daily. About ten years ago, we were playing Wildhorse on a hot July day. Not only did they book a small tournament last minute and cram the course, but none of the coolers had water in JULY!!! My buddy was a member at the time and was hosting myself and another friend. Our friend had never played there, so this was all very embarassing to Bob. After a front nine with no wtaer, my Italian bud stormed into the pro shop and blew up. He walked out with a refund and two comp rounds that we used later. No water in July!!

Back to Rio Stucco. Have to agree about the attitudes. It's almost like they expect you to thank them for allowing you to enter the hallowed grounds of Butch, Tiger, Phil etc. Of course, they're not the only course in town with that kind of attitude. Every course in twon should send their people for service seminars at the Paiute or Primm Valley. You're getting screwed on greensfees in LV anyway, you might as well pay a bit more and get the best hooker they have to offer!

Good Luck!
Ric at Joes

I agree with Ric regarding the hit or miss in conditioning. When the greens are good though, they're really good.
I don't like the houses that have enroached over the years but it is what it is.
I know Cascata has just hired a new director of golf and I think he does Rio Secco too. If so, one should expect better attitudes if not some discounts. Especially come June.
It's a track worth playing.